You can soon switch between IITs for a semester
What's the story
The Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) will introduce a cross-campus academic exchange program starting this academic year. This initiative marks the first structured academic exchange across the IIT network. Students will have the opportunity to enroll in courses at different IIT campuses and spend a semester outside their home institute. The program is designed to ease the rigid structure of the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE)-based system, which traditionally restricted students' academic journey based on their rank.
Curriculum mapping
Mapping of curricula underway for credit transfer
IIT Madras Director V Kamakoti revealed that curricula are being mapped across multiple programs in various IITs. This mapping will allow students from one IIT to study at another and earn transferable credits. Prathap Haridoss, Dean (Academics) at IIT Madras, confirmed that credit transfer and student mobility were key topics discussed during a recent meeting of academic deans from all IITs.
Student mobility
Addressing concerns about rank integrity and student movement
Previously, large-scale transfers were not allowed due to concerns about rank integrity. However, the decision to permit student movement was discussed in the IIT Council and will be subject to approval by individual IIT senates. This initiative aims to transform parallel-operating campuses into a network facilitating student movement. Haridoss emphasized that students often move for internships and training, making it beneficial for them to take courses at nearby IITs during such periods.
Initial implementation
Initial implementation and capacity constraints
The cross-campus program will initially be implemented in a limited manner, with each IIT determining how many visiting students it can host based on the infrastructure and capacity constraints. The framework has received broad agreement among the deans, with an understanding that equal movement in both directions would alleviate capacity concerns. This initiative is expected to enhance the academic experience of students across the IIT network.